Dual Degree in Medical Sciences and Clinical Investigation

Dual Degree Program in Medical Sciences and Clinical Investigation

Boston University School of Medicine currently supports two successful programs under the Division of Graduate Medical Sciences: the Master of Science in Medical Sciences and Master of Science in Clinical Investigation Programs. A review of curricula, student interests and goals, emerging careers for professionals with a background in the medical sciences, and clinical research suggested the need for a Master of Science in Medical Sciences and Clinical Investigation Dual Degree Program. This program is now available to incoming students.

A number of the students in the Medical Sciences Program who take the Clinical Investigation electives in that concentration do so to gain a clinical research background prior to attending medical school. As well, some students elect to pursue a M.S. in Medical Sciences and an M.S. in Clinical Investigation with the intent of pursing clinical research related career opportunities in academic institutions, or in pharmaceutical, biotechnology or medical device industries. The dual degree option would give these students an opportunity to gain training that will serve them well as clinician- researcher.

Curriculum

The 50-credit Dual Degree Program in Medical Science and Clinical Investigation offers complementary curricula with a strong background in the medical sciences, and research design and implementation. Attached is the model curriculum for the dual degree program which can be modified to meet specific student needs.

This unique program includes curricula in medical sciences, and all of the key elements in clinical investigation offered in a dynamic hospital and medical school environment. The Program is designed as a two-year full-time experience although accommodations can be made for students who need more time to complete the dual degree. Senior faculty with clinical and research expertise will both instruct and mentor students throughout the program. A research thesis, completed during the second year of the program, is designed to demonstrate research skills. Students will also complete 240 hours of a clinical practicum in either an academic institution or in industry.

In addition to core course work, graduates will develop fine-tuned clinical research skills as part of their successful completion of their practicum and research thesis. The dual degree program is appealing to those students who are interested in pursuing careers in the areas of academic medicine, health, and clinical research in either an academic or industry setting. Students completing the Program will be awarded a Master of Science Degree in Medical Sciences and a Master of Science Degree in Clinical Investigation.